New Ballroom Dance Classes Starting in October

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Looking for a new activity or hobby? Preferably something that is fun to do, but also beneficial? Well, we have just the right idea for you- ballroom dance classes! Learning to dance is so enjoyable and the benefits are boundless. When you’re on the dance floor you can just let go of all the stress and concerns that build up every day and just enjoy yourself. It’s a great way to get in shape, build confidence, increase your energy, and feel good about yourself. If something can offer you such a positive experience, isn’t it worth checking out?

At Dance FX Studios, in Mesa, AZ, part of the Phoenix East Valley area, we can help you to learn to ballroom dance, whether it’s the passionate Argentine tango, a spicy Latin dance like the Salsa, a lively Swing, or the ever-popular Country Two Step. For over 12 years, Dance FX Studios has taught thousands of Phoenix residents to become secure and accomplished dancers, while having a wonderful time in the process! Not to mention that learning to dance is a skill you will have for the rest of your life for any occasion. So, no matter what the event, gone will be the days when you sit on the sidelines watching everyone else having a good time!

We are so excited to announce that beginning in October, Dance FX Studios is offering NEW ballroom dance group classes! This is a great opportunity to try out a variety of dances, especially if you’re not sure which one you would like to learn or if you want to try several of them. These are drop-in classes will be available Monday-Thursday evenings throughout the month. This way, you can take individual classes that work around your schedule, since there is no monthly commitment and each one is only $7 per person for each class. Wow- such a deal!

Group dance classes at Dance FX Studios are multiple for beginners, intermediate or advanced dancers who want to have fun learning to ballroom dance. Classes include the Salsa, Bachata, Country Swing, Country 2-step, and Jitterbug Swing. With our LIMITED TIME offer of 5 classes for $25 (one per person), our group dance classes for adults are easy and exciting introduction into learning to dance! You can stick to one type throughout the month, or mix it up with your own variety of classes. In addition to learning various new dances, it’s also an excellent way to socialize and meet new people. If you would like to ensure you have a partner, bring them along, it’s a terrific chance to spend some time together having fun and getting closer.

We will be kicking off Dance FX Studios’ Fall Group Dance Classes on Monday, September 30th, from 7:00-7:45 pm with “Slammin’ Salsa 1”. In this fiery class you will learn to really shake it up out on the dance floor. On Tuesday, October 1st, will be our “Kool Kats Swing 1”, from 6:00-6:45 pm. For those of you who love Jitterbug style dancing, this is perfect for you! Immediately after this, from 7:00-7:45 is “A Lotta Bachata 1”. This spicy dance is a must for those of you who are looking to really add some zest to your Latin dancing! On Wednesday, October 2nd, we offer “Round ‘Em Up 1”, from 7:00-7:45 pm, our Country 2-Step – a favorite here in Arizona. And last, but certainly not least, on Thursday, is “Swing Your Partner 1”, which is a Country Swing class, from 7:00-7:45 pm- also popular and quite versatile.

Each week we’ll offer another level for each class, as well as repeating some of the other levels, for those who may not be able to make one of them the first time it’s offered. Each dance class is designed not just for learning each dance, but also to laugh and enjoy! So, why wait to get started? Check out Dance FX Studios group class calendar on our website for the entire month’s schedule to see which classes, days, and times work best for you and come on over to the studio to start dancing!

All About the Bachata

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When was the last time you danced? The desire to dance is one of the most primitive and instinctual senses within human beings. It has been said the dancing is older than anything except eating, drinking, and love. These things are the rhythm of life… and rhythm is the basis of dancing! It is a fact that emotion does inspire the body to move. Society and conditioning have taught people to suppress this natural response, but this primal desire is there all the same. Even though you may have not danced in awhile, or ever at all, you do have this instinct imbedded inside you. So why not listen to those instincts and get out there and dance!

There are a number of dances that are available to learn and sometimes it can get a little confusing as to which dance best suits an individual’s preference. What type of music do you like? Do you want to be able to dance anywhere, from clubs to weddings? Would you like to reconnect with your partner? Today, we’re going to talk about ballroom dancing and, more specifically, a sensual Latin dance called the Bachata.

An increasing amount of people are becoming more interested in Bachata dancing, as there are so many advantages to learning this dance and becoming familiar with the music. Some of the many benefits involve building confidence, learning a new skill, making new acquaintances, as well as, improved hand and eye coordination. For many fans, Bachata is simply a form of entertainment or escapism with enchantingly exotic music and intimate dancing. What a great way to reconnect with your partner or connect with someone new!

OK, so what exactly is the Bachata? Bachata is a both a dance and a style of Latin music from the Dominican Republic. It has elements of other Latin genres and styles and is relatively new, emerging from the rural areas of the Dominican Republic in the 1950’s. Bachata songs are often about country living and love, both passionate romance and hurtful heartbreaks- it is very similar to the American blues. Even though Bachata dancing is different from Salsa or Merengue, the intensity and sensuality is just as strong, if not more so.

Because of its humble origins and subject matter, the Bachata was not popular at first. It was originally considered music for the poor and uneducated. This, however, didn’t stop the Bachata artists who continued playing and writing songs for their few faithful fans. As the years passed Bachata music evolved, borrowing styles and rhythms from modern genres like Latin pop music. Today, Bachata has gained popularity and recognition- it has left the rural countryside of the Dominican Republic and is now popular in major cities throughout the world!

Sound intriguing? Let Dance FX Studios, Arizona’s leading private ballroom dance studio, located near Tempe and Chandler, help you to become skilled in Bachata dancing. We are available for private lessons Monday-Friday, from 12-8 and Saturday, from 11-4. Give us a call at 480.968.6177 to begin this new and exciting adventure!

At Dance FX Studios, in Mesa, AZ, we have helped so many people learn to ballroom dance-including styles such as Country, Swing, Latin, and Argentine Tango. We have changed apprehensive and self-conscious beginners to confident and competent dancers and would love to do the same for you! A great way to get started with Latin dance lessons is with our Introductory Offer, for only $40 per couple or single. This one hour lesson is all we need to show you how much fun learning to dance can be for anyone. Learning to dance is a skill you can use anywhere, for any occasion, and is something you will have with you throughout your life. How many other things can offer you that? Add a little passion into your life with Bachata dance lessons or another style of your choice-either way, you’ll be enjoying a hobby that will keep you moving for years to come.

Spice Things Up With Tango Lessons

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It seems like each day you get up, get ready for work, spend the day working, run some errands, come home, eat dinner, take care of things around the house, and collapse into bed. The next day, you do it all over again. Some nights you lie in bed thinking- is this all there is? Where is the fun and excitement in my life? Well, it sounds like it’s time to shake things up, maybe try something you’ve never done before, after all variety is the spice of life! How about trying something to spice up your life? Argentine tango dance lessons may be just the ticket!

Dance FX Studios, in Mesa, AZ, has been teaching students private ballroom dance lessons, whether it’s the Argentine tango, Country, Swing, or Latin ballroom dancing, throughout the Phoenix area for over 12 years. We are the leading dance studio in the East Valley, Arizona region for Argentine tango ballroom dance lessons. The Argentine tango, which is the original tango, is a romantic and intimate social dance that is not only popular in Arizona, but throughout the world.

The Argentine tango is like poetry in motion. It is a place for self-expression, a dance that is an art. There is no other dance that best describes intrigue and passion. Taking Argentine tango dance lessons is a great way to connect with your partner and add some excitement back into your life. Most couples are so busy with their day to day activities that it is hard to make time for each other and do something together. What a great opportunity to reignite the flames of desire in your relationship and leave the rest of the world at the door!

The Argentine tango is world renowned as the ultimate romantic dance. It creates an exhilarating feeling of freedom and togetherness. Just hearing the word tango invokes sophistication, culture and emotion.  It is one of the best known and popular social dances in the world. Tango enthusiasts have a common love and craving for the dance that is rarely seen in other dance styles. Argentine Tango is often referred to as the dancer’s dance. This passionate dance is relatively gentle and physically undemanding and is basically built upon walking, which makes it suitable for just about everyone.

Argentine tango dancing is like playing chess, having a work-out, being on a date, travelling through space and time, discovering a foreign culture, going to a concert, and exploring one’s creativity… all at the same time! Wow- we know that this is an exciting dance, but who knew the Argentine tango could do all that? It is true, though, that you can become so enraptured with this dance that you just go off into another world, leaving all your worries behind and just focus on your partner and dancing.

At Dance FX Studios, close to Chandler and Tempe, AZ, we can get you ready to delve into this amorous dance with private Argentine tango dance lessons. Whether you’re single or a couple, we can help anyone to become a skilled and confident dancer.  We would love to get you started with our Introductory Special- a one hour private lesson for only $40 per couple or single. This one hour lesson will allow you to check out our studio and our unique method of teaching, as well as learning partner connection and how to communicate effectively on the dance floor.

To schedule your first lesson, give us a call at 480.968.6177. We are available for private dance lessons Monday-Friday, from 12-8 pm and Saturday, from 11 am-4 pm. Come and discover just how easy and enjoyable learning to dance at Dance FX Studios can be for anyone who would like to learn to dance. Unlike the fads of many forms of music, Argentine tango is something that does and always will transcend time and culture. Are you ready to begin your journey into the world of Argentine tango? If so, contact us today to begin your journey into learning to dance.

Ballroom Dance Benefits: Getting Physical!

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Many of you know that ballroom dancing can be an exciting and rewarding social activity, but did you know that there are a variety of physical benefits of learning to dance? Dancing just doesn’t seem like exercise, yet it offers a total body workout, using all of the major muscle groups and providing heart-healthy benefits.

Getting fit should be pleasurable, not boring. Ballroom dancing can actually burn as many calories as a gym workout. For many people looking to get fit, the dance floor offers an exhilarating alternative to the drudgery of the gym, and experts say sticking to an exercise regime is much easier when it’s not a chore. That does make a lot of sense- if you enjoy what you’re doing, you look forward to it and won’t be looking for excuses for why you can’t get into shape!

Depending on the dance-including Latin, Swing, Country Western or even Tango– ballroom dancing can burn anywhere from 250 to 400 calories an hour – about the same as a brisk half-hour walk on a treadmill. What’s great is the more fast-paced ballroom-Latin dances like the Salsa and Cha Cha Cha, can even be compared to an intense session at the gym. Wouldn’t you rather be out somewhere at a Latin dance club or Country bar here in the Phoenix East Valley area kicking up your heels dancing, instead of being on a treadmill?

Feeling like your get-up-and-go just got up and went? Taking a ballroom dance lesson or group class may just help. Research has found that dancing can increase energy levels. A lot of us have sedentary lifestyles, with more people working in offices instead of in physical jobs, which can really leave you feeling drained of all your vigor. Once you get yourself out on the dance floor, dancing will rev up your metabolism and get that blood flowing so you will feel yourself starting to come alive again!

Ballroom dancing can also increase your flexibility. By using muscles that you may not always be using on a regular basis, you will begin to find that stretches you once couldn’t do will give way to flexibility. Not only will ballroom dancing increase your flexibility, it will help with your balance and posture. Staying flexible helps to prevent the loss of mobility, which ensures independence as we age. Being flexible also significantly reduces the chance of experiencing occasional and chronic back pain. So, not only are you having fun dancing, you’re also helping to make sure that you stay flexible-two things that will make your mother happy by standing up tall and straight! 🙂

Maybe you would love to dance, but you are afraid that you may not be skilled enough to be a social ballroom dancer.  That is where we at Dance FX Studios in Mesa, Arizona con help you. Over the last decade, we have has taught thousands of people get out there and dance with private ballroom dance lessons.  From the ever popular Country Two Step to the fun-loving Swing, it doesn’t matter which dance you learn first. Give ballroom dance lessons a try and you will see your body transform itself before long.

 Are you ready to experience this enjoyable and beneficial alternative to the gym? Dance FX Studios, close to Tempe, Gilbert, Chandler, and Scottsdale, Arizona offers a variety of social ballroom dance lessons, such as the sensual and romantic Argentine Tango and the sexy Salsa. Private dance lessons are made by appointment Monday-Friday from 12-8 pm and on Saturdays from 11 am-4 pm. To get started, we suggest you begin with our Introductory Special, only $40 (per couple or single) for a one hour private dance lesson. We are confident that one hour is all we need to show you our unique method of teaching and how invigorating dancing can be for YOU!

Be a Show-Stopper on Your Wedding Day!

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Are you looking for that element of surprise and excitement on your wedding day? Would you like to give your guests an experience that they will never forget? Then “rock your reception” with the ultimate first dance wedding routine! While the cake may be gorgeous and the flowers beautiful, a dance choreographed just for you and danced at the most important event of your life will surely steal the memories of most as a highlight of your wedding.

Give your friends and family something truly unexpected with, what we like to call, a “Rock Your Reception” wedding dance. Wedding dance lessons to prepare you for looking AMAZING on the dance floor are a must. If you live in the Phoenix area, head over to Dance FX Studios in Mesa for wedding dance lessons. Guaranteed, one of our choreographers will deliver the perfect dance made just for you. For over a decade, the instructors at Dance FX Studios have choreographed thousands of first dances for Arizona brides and grooms. We have literally done it all! From the elegant and sophisticated wedding dances to the completely outrageous, to the dramatic, we will customize a dance that meets your every wish.

To get started, contact us by email at info@dancefxstudios.com or by phone at 480.968.6177 and set up a wedding dance consultation. The consultation will include a “meet and greet” and some dancing to give us a chance to see where you are at and what it will take to get you to where you want to go. The ultimate goal? To make you shine on your wedding day on that dance floor, of course! Each of our dance instructors is highly skilled at working with brides and grooms when it comes to understanding your wants for your wedding dance as well as your comfort level.

For those who really want to leave a lasting impression, we would be thrilled to teach you a sensual and intimate Argentine tango or a lively and sassy Salsa dance routine. If you were thinking of something more subdued, we can choreograph a beautiful Waltz or graceful Foxtrot dance to suit your personalities. For those on the more playful side, maybe a Swing would be just the dance that would reflect your personal styles. Another fun route, especially for those who live here in Arizona, is a Country Two Step. What a fun dance! Whatever dance style speaks to you, the instructor at Dance FX Studios are here to add that unique touch to your wedding dance.

Wedding dance consultations are offered throughout the week for your convenience. Monday through Friday we can accommodate you from noon to 8 pm by appointment in advance. On Saturdays, we are also available by appointment from 11 am to 4 pm. If you’re wondering how soon before the wedding to get started, the short answer is 4-6 months depending on how elaborate you would like your first dance to look. We have begun preparations as soon as a year in advance or as short as several weeks prior to wedding days, but, with more notice, you will really look and feel your best.

Dance FX Studios is located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona. We are next to Tempe, Gilbert, Chandler, Scottsdale (and even close enough to those who live in Queen Creek to make it worth the drive 🙂 ). We would be honored to make your first wedding dance of your dreams a reality. Let us know when you are ready to learn to dance for your big day, and we will help to make your wedding day that much more special.

Invest in Each Other with Dance Lessons

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You wake up early, scurry to get the kids off to school, head to work, sit in rush hour to pick up the kids, hurry home to make dinner, get the little ones off to bed and then pass out -just so you can do the same “oh-so-fun” routine all over again tomorrow. Sound familiar? This is the story of so many people. In the meantime, life is passing you and your spouse by. “But with so much to do, how can we even make the time for each other?”, you may be wondering. I have just the answer (no, it does not include escaping to Mexico one day while the children are in class in a desperate attempt for some one-on-one time-although that is a very romantic idea!). Couple’s Latin, Swing, Country two step or even tango dance lessons are more of what I had in mind. How are “ballroom dance lessons” the perfect cure to meet your needs as a couple? Let me explain…

1. Dancing is romantic. Plain and simple. Think of the last time that you and your husband or wife held each other close and moved as one to your favorite song. Was it your wedding day? If the answer is yes, you are missing out on an amazing way to get in touch with each other and re-gain that special feeling that you had when you are in each other’s arms. Let him sweep you off of your feet so that you can relax for an hour and show her how you are willing to try something exotic and adventurous like salsa dancing. It’s a win/win!

2. Dancing relieves stress. It’s nearly impossible to think of anything else while you are on the dance floor with your special someone. Through physical movement and making that connection with each other, tango or swing dancing will literally transport you to another place. Save some money on that vacation and let your mind wander away from those deadlines at work and back to the times where you were the only two people in the room. With no other distractions to be had, you are sure to forget about life’s urgency’s and enjoy the moment at hand.

3. Dancing keeps you fit. After years of complacency, a few dance two step or cha cha dance lessons will reignite that spark to get back into shape. Without even knowing it, fast-paced dances can burn up to 400 calories in the average weighted person. For yourself and each other, get off of the couch, shed a few of those pounds that tend to creep up as time goes by and make some time to learn to dance. What’s incredible about dancing is that it not only helps you to get physically in-shape, but mentally fit as well. In fact, for those in their later years, ballroom dancing has actually been found in studies to decrease the risk of dementia. How cool is that!?

So now that you know how much you and your significant other may have been missing over the last few years, it’s not too late to give dance lessons a try to rekindle your love for each other. A fun way to get started if you live in the Phoenix metro area is with an introductory dance lesson at Dance FX Studios in Mesa, AZ. Why Dance FX Studios? Well, we are the only social dance studio in town that focuses solely on helping couples to re-connect on the dance floor with popular and useful social dances like the Country swing and the salsa. Unlike the traditional ballroom dance studios in Phoenix, we will teach you how to take your dancing out into the real world with confidence and ease.

Begin your journey into couple’s dance lessons today and remind each other of why you fell in love in the first place. Dance FX Studios is located in the East valley of Phoenix just off the 101 highway to accommodate residents in Gilbert, Tempe, Scottsdale, Queen Creek and Chandler, Arizona. We hope to see you on the dance floor soon!

Get Social with Dance Lessons for Adults in Mesa, Arizona

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There are short-cuts to happiness, and dancing is one of them. -Vicki Baum

You’re starting to get in a rut. You want something fun, different, and exciting to do for a night out. Your schedule is so busy that maybe you need something to do just a couple times a month to start. Tired of the same old routine- dinner, movies and bedtime? Maybe you and your friends need to change or add to your current workout habits. Do something a little out of the ordinary to stay in shape rather than hitting those weights or jumping into a spinning class and give dance lessons a try!
Have you thought about trying a beginners swing or salsa dance class for fun and exercise? The physical aspects of dancing are a great benefit. Have you been thinking that you’d like to make some changes to your usual fitness routine? How about burning calories and avoiding the gym by dancing? Why do things the traditional way when social dancing is a more pleasurable and exciting way to get into shape? Dancing for one hour can burn anywhere from 300-450 calories and you will be having a fantastic time while doing so! And, if that wasn’t enough, dancing also increases your flexibility, strength, and endurance.

Social dancing also allows you the freedom to relax, de-stress, and just let yourself go while learning a new hobby and getting fit. Dance lessons here in Arizona in the ever-popular Country two step, for example, provide the perfect opportunity to have fun with friends or your partner and enjoy life together, away from all the usual day to day worries and concerns.
Maybe you would like to meet some new people and make new friends. Social dancing is an excellent way to get to know others without a lot of pressure. It provides a wonderful way for people to become socially acquainted- especially in group dance classes or dance parties. Social dancing can also increase self-confidence and build social skills. And through dancing, a shared sense of community encourages long-lasting connections.
So, are you ready to try something new? Maybe you don’t have a lot of time to commit to your new hobby or maybe you just want to see what social dancing in Arizona is all about. You may want to consider attending a swing dance party or Country night out. Dance FX Studios in Mesa, Arizona is the perfect place to go for dance events in Phoenix as well as for private and group dance lessons! Wouldn’t it be nice to experience your first time out dancing with the comfort of instructors and fellow dance students by your side? With our Night’s Out around Phoenix, you will learn to navigate around a crowded dance floor and enjoy social dancing with new friends and familiar faces as you venture out into the real world of dancing.
Come on out and join Dance FX Studios’ staff and students at local Country and Latin dancing venues around the Phoenix area for an evening of dancing and entertainment! The Dance FX Studios’ instructors will provide you with some excellent dance pointers at an actual venue where the music and other dancers are outside the studio environment. You will learn how to be strategic with your dance moves in a real-world situation so you can be prepared for any occasion.
A Night Out evening with the Dance FX Studios’ staff includes a group dance class, your first drink at the venue, and two hours of dancing with Dance FX Studios’ instructors and fellow students. Discover how enjoyable it is to go social dancing with us!
What an amazing opportunity to see what dancing is all about and to hang out with new and old friends. These events take place a couple of times a month- one for Country dancing and one for Latin dancing. For more information and frequently asked questions, read about our Night’s Out. You can also pre-register in order to reserve a space and save $10!
In addition to our Nights Out, we also have themed Dance Parties with live music at the studio. If you have ever considered how wonderful it would be to learn to swing dance or dance the Argentine tango, you can find out at Dance FX Studios. Maybe Country or Latin is more your style. Not a problem, we have events for  those styles of dance as well. Similar to the Nights Out, we begin our parties with a mini group class and from there, it’s up to you to mix, mingle, and dance with others who are also learning. Maybe you just want a chance to dance with your partner, that’s OK too. And, if you’re feeling a little insecure about dancing or you don’t have a partner, no worries, the Dance FX instructors will be there to help and guide you on the dance floor. With live music, refreshments, and dancing, Dance FX Studios provides a venue experience but in the comfort of our studio. We welcome you to bring friends or family members with you- the more the merrier!

Our next Dance Party will be a Country theme and will be held at the Dance FX Studios in the Phoenix East Valley on July 13th, from 8:00-11:00 pm with Two-bit Shotgun providing great live music. What a terrific way to spend a Saturday night! To pre-register for this event and to check out some of our videos from previous Dance Parties, please go to our website.

So, are you ready to have fun learning to dance with us? You may find that after attending one of our events, that you love dancing as much as we do! Get started today with private dance lessons and you will be even more prepared for our Night’s Out and Dance Parties. You will soon become a fabulous social dancer for any occasion, any time!

Dance FX Studios is located at 1859 W Guadalupe, in Mesa, AZ. Our hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 12:00-8:00 pm and Saturdays from 11:00 am–4:00 pm. For additional questions, to make a reservation for an event, or to schedule private lessons, please give us a call at 480.968.6177.

Discover More About the Cha Cha and Merengue!

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In a previous blog, we covered a brief history of the salsa and Argentine tango. Today, we are going to explore a few other popular social Latin dances. Latin dancing is  popular everywhere-especially in the southwest where we are here in Arizona. From Latin clubs to private parties, knowing how to Latin dance will come in handy! Get inspired to hit the dance floor and shake those hips because ANYONE can become a great Latin dancer-even YOU!

Let us begin with the Cha Cha, a vibrant, flamboyant and playful Latin dance. The carefree and lively feel of the Cha Cha gives it a unique sense of fun for dancers all over the world.

The Cha Cha is an interpretive social dance, born from the fusion of progressive American and Latin music. The initial purpose of learning this dance was for weight change. Originally known as the Cha-Cha-Cha, it became popular in the 1950’s and was a spin-off of the Mambo. Eventually it evolved into a separate dance, known today as the Cha Cha.

The Cha Cha was immensely popular from the beginning and is a dance that has never gone out of style. It is a constant favorite at weddings because of its versatility with many genres of music. In fact, the Cha Cha can be done to Country dance music, oldies and Hip Hop, in addition to Latin styles. This dance is very easy to learn, and, once you have the basic pattern down, can be done in a crowded room or a wide open space. For social dancing, this is a plus as you can dance the Cha Cha anywhere with ease.

To this day, the Cha Cha has remained one of the most popular partner dances. Less sensual than the Mambo and less erotic than the Bolero, it is exciting and fun to dance. Everybody loves the Cha Cha!

Next, let us tell you about the Merengue. Whenever someone pulls out their hot Latino tunes and starts playing the Merengue, there’s a party! What’s great about the Merengue is that it is based on simple marching steps. There’s an old saying: “If you can walk, you can dance the Merengue.”

The Merengue is the national dance of the Dominican Republic, and also to some extent, of Haiti. It has been around since the early years of the Dominican Republic (in Haiti, a similar dance is called the Meringue). It is very likely that the dance took its name from the confection made of sugar and egg whites due to the light and bubbly character of the dance or because of its short, precise rhythms.

By the middle of the nineteenth century, the Merengue became quite popular in the Dominican Republic. It was used for every dancing occasion in the Republic and is vastly prevalent throughout the Caribbean and South American. It is one of the standard Latin American dances.

There is a lot of variety in Merengue music and tempos can vary a great deal. The Dominicans prefer a sharp quickening with the pace towards the end of the dance. The favorite routine at the clubs is a slow Bolero, which then breaks into a Merengue, and then becomes similar to a fast Jive towards the end. The ballroom version of the Merengue is slower and has a modified hip action.

The Merengue was introduced in the United States around the New York area. It increased in popularity in the U. S. and the rest of the world with its peak years occurring between the 1970s and the turn of the twenty-first century. It had a lot of competition with other Latin dances, but eventually won a foothold in the club scene. Ideally suited to small, crowded dance floors, it is a dance that is easy to learn and really fun for all!

There are so many exciting and popular social ballroom dances to discover. See upcoming blogs, and even previous blogs, on Dance FX Studios’ website to learn about the history of the Swing, Country two step and more. To get started learning these popular dances today, so that you can join in on the fun tomorrow, try out our introductory offer for just $40! You will soon see how dancing really is FUN and EASY to learn and enjoy. Become a confident social dancer after a few private dance lessons and see how many doors will open for you. Dance FX Studios is located in Mesa, Arizona in the Phoenix East Valley, just off the 101 highway for your convenience.

Boost Your Self Esteem With Social Dancing

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Today, we’re going to continue our series on the numerous benefits of social dancing. Remember that social dancing, unlike traditional ballroom dancing, includes dances like the Country two step, salsa and swing because they can used in real-world situations like at weddings or holiday parties or on a cruise. And speaking of social.. have you ever considered that dancing is valuable for team cooperation, communication, and camaraderie? Let’s explore how…

Team cooperation: Partner dancing, like the Argentine tango, for example, allows collaboration in an environment supporting positive teamwork. Dancing is all about partnership and working together. It’s perfect for releasing inhibitions and enabling partners to interact with each other in a way that may never happen otherwise. As one partner leads, the other follows, building teamwork and confidence in each other and each other’s roles on the dance floor.

Communication: Social partner dancing provides a unique social interaction that sends both intentional and unintentional messages. Dancing may change moods, serve as a force of attraction, and influence perception, all through physical movements and nonverbal communication. Next time you’re at an event that involves dancing, watch some of the people dancing together. Notice that they don’t even have to speak in order to move around fluently together on the dance floor. And, did you notice all the smiles? It’s hard not to do when you’re dancing. : – )

Camaraderie: Social dancing is a great way to meet people in a non-threatening, relaxed atmosphere. You never know who you are going to meet on the dance floor. Lifelong friendships are formed, and many have met the love of their life at a social dance. Not only will you improve your relationship with your dance partner, but also with your instructor and fellow students in your journey of learning to become a confident social dancer. I can’t tell you how awesome it is to see students getting along so well with each other and forming bonds- all through their experiences through dancing! At Dance FX Studios in Mesa, AZ, students benefit tremendously through our Nights Out and Dance Parties because it gives them the chance to practice their dancing and socialize with their peers at a local venue or at the studio, along with their instructors. It’s a great time for all!

Confidence and Self-Esteem: Social dancing is also amazing for individual self- improvement. By giving social dance lessons a try, you will gain more confidence and self- esteem, become self-disciplined, gain a sense of accomplishment and increase persistence.
Many people really want to learn how to dance, but they allow their fear, anxiety or apprehension to stop them from “braving” the dance floor. Breaking through fear and anxiety of any kind always increases self-confidence. Taking those first steps to get on the dance floor can boost self-esteem, helping you to become more in touch with your courageous side, and bringing you greater joy than you have ever dreamed. I have seen first-hand how dancing can transform students from being timid and self-conscious, into individuals with pride, happiness, and self-assurance as the receptionist here at Dance FX Studios. It’s amazing to see such an improvement in how they perceive themselves and everyone around them. Dancing helps you to walk taller and exude the charm and grace you often see in others on the dance floor. So, whether you’re doing the bachata or the Country swing, dancing aides in a sense of assurance.

Self-Discipline: You can’t expect to grow and develop as a dancer without taking the initiative and feeling the drive and motivation to better yourself. Whether in a private dance lesson or practicing at home, we’ve always heard that “practice makes perfect”. Practicing your steps is using self- control to become a better dancer. What if you have questions? Do you just keep them to yourself and always wonder or do you take action and speak up? By being resourceful and asking your question, you’ve taken control of the situation, rather than just wondering what you wanted to know. Dancing can really inspire you to be pro-active.

Sense of Accomplishment: OK, you’ve made the decision to learn to Country dance. You’re determined, eager, and ready to go. You take the steps to get started. As you progress, you’re meeting your goals, and you along with others, are really seeing the results of your efforts. The satisfaction of knowing you are meeting your objective and have learned a specific dance or step leads to a real sense of accomplishment, both physically and emotionally, and is worth the time and determination you have put into learning to dance. Give yourself a pat on the back-you deserve it!

Increased Persistence: Persistence is not based on achieving a reward—it’s a quality that arises in and of itself. It’s a willingness to act, right now, in the moment. Learning to dance can sometimes become a challenge, especially initially, but students know that in order to move forward, they need to do the work, in order to achieve their goals. No one gets it overnight, but by sticking with it eventually you will become more adept at it. As everyone knows, persistence pays off. We want to help everyone get there and become a proficient dancer with dance classes at Dance FX Studios.

Dance FX Studios is THE dance studio in the Phoenix East Valley to go to for learning to be a competent social dancer. We offer “real dancing for real people”. Have you thought about how rewarding it would be if you could learn to dance for your next event, going out to a club, or just to get yourself up off the couch? It’s definitely something worth doing for yourself and/or your partner.
Dance FX Studios offer some of the most popular social dances in Arizona include Salsa, Swing, Country Two Step, and Argentine Tango. Check us out online to learn more about these dances and additional classes offered at Dance FX Studios.

Dance for the Art of It!

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The artistic benefits of knowing how to dance are endless! What do salsa dancing, swing, Country or even the Argentine tango have in common? They all allow us to explore our creative, right brain on a deeper level. Dancing opens the doors for self-expression, appreciation for the arts, musicality and rhythmic expression, creative freedom, imagination and innovation. When you think about it, dancing has much to offer in the way of enhancing ones’ life. Learning steps on the dance floor is minor in comparison to what one can gain by taking a Latin dance class or a Country two step lesson. Let’s further investigate the ties between dancing and the arts…

Art Appreciation: If you have ever watched television shows like “Dancing With The Stars” or “So You Think You Can Dance”, you may have seen the same waltz or salsa danced in a hundred different ways. As artists, the choreographers of those dances continue to push their creative limits to make the same dance unique in its appearance and therefore limitless in terms of creative possibilities. For spectators, the creativity of the choreographers provides true dance entertainment. This, in and of itself, makes dancing attractive to those who value creative expression.

Appreciation for the arts is the recognition of those timeless qualities that characterize not just dance, but all great art. By its nature, dance seeks to defy confinement and boundaries creatively.  By exploring dance through pure movement, ritual, lifestyle, communication, tradition, self-expression and high art, one can tap into a side of themselves that is new, life-enhancing and exciting.

Musicality and Rhythmic Expression: Musicality in dance has two main components, receptivity and creativity. Musical receptivity is the ability to hear, comprehend, be sensitive to and have a working knowledge of musical concepts like rhythm, tempo, phrasing and even mood. Musical creativity is the ability to connect with accompanying music, interpret it, and add movement dynamics that relate to music even in the absence of accompaniment in a way that is unique or interesting. Musicality in dance then might be considered a degree to which a dancer is receptive and creative in his/her translation of music through movement. It is a key ingredient in a dancer’s display of artistry. When dancing the Argentine tango, for example, the leads of two different couples may hear different nuances in the music and therefore dance a different set of moves according to what part of the music that they are interpreting. While musical interpretation does not often come naturally to leaders on the dance floor, one can be taught what to listen to so as to begin to train their ear for the patterns within each piece of music. Understanding musicality takes dancing to the next level and gives beginner dancers something to strive for and grow into with their dancing.

Creative Expression: Creativity is a matter of translating messages of passion, excitement, and soul into our own musical language through structure, harmony, rhythm, and style. The broader our exposure and the more sensitive our inner listening, the richer our unique interpretation will be. Dancing is about self-discovery, self-expression and spontaneity. When you dance, the body expresses itself by means of the motions which are natural to it. By making the body a free instrument of free expression we are able to express in bodily movement the ideas and emotions that come from within. Again, two people can be swing or salsa dancing to the same music and be inspired to do completely different movements with their bodies.
Imagination: Through listening to music and then responding to it, the body and brain are connected. We sometimes tend to concentrate on training the brain and forget the importance of the body in terms of human development. The language of music and dance provides a lot of nutrition to our human expression. Humans need to develop their creative potential and imagination and dancing is a great way to develop these skills.

Innovation: Creativity is thinking up new things, innovation is doing new things. Through dancing, we can inspire creativity, deep listening, and cross-generational understanding. Our minds and bodies are intrinsically linked; movement acts as a messenger between the two. When we can understand our own and others’ movements, our capacity to collaborate and harness our intuition skyrockets. And growing research in many disciplines–from neuroscience to sports medicine, from psychology to anthropology–supports these ideas.

If you are looking to have more creativity in your life, dancing is for you! Don’t have a dance partner? That’s alright! You can explore your artistic side with one of our dance  instructors at Dance FX Studios in Mesa, Arizona. At Dance FX Studios, you will enjoy the art of learning popular social dances like salsa, swing, Country two step and Argentine tango. We offer dance lessons for adults in Phoenix who want to have fun, connect with others and learn a healthy, new hobby. Get into dancing today by checking out our website. Our introductory offer will show you how you can become a confident and creative dancer in no time!